Location: UGANDA
Beneficiaries: 150 local refugee farmers
The Project
The project’s ambitious goal was to enable these farmers to grow enough food sustainably, not only to fight hunger but also to improve their livelihoods and actively participate in local development. By embracing whole system thinking and design principles, the project sought to create flourishing natural ecosystems within the settlement.
A key component of the initiative was the practical support provided to participants. Each farmer received essential garden tools – a watering can, a hoe, and a box of high-quality seeds – equipping them to put their newfound knowledge into practice immediately.
The Impact of the Seed Grant
The results of the seedgrant we gave in 2023 have been nothing short of transformative. Here are some of the key impacts:
Reduced Dependence on Food Aid: As refugees began producing more of their own food, their reliance on external assistance decreased significantly, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and dignity.
Increased Crop Yields: Many farmers reported a remarkable 30-40% increase in their harvests compared to previous seasons, directly contributing to improved food security.
Soil Regeneration: The introduction of composting, mulching, and other soil management techniques led to visible improvements in soil health, laying the foundation for long-term agricultural sustainability.
Economic Empowerment: With a 20-30% increase in income from agricultural sales, many participants have seen a significant improvement in their financial situations. Some enterprising farmers even began exploring value-added products like dried fruits and herbal teas, opening up new market opportunities.
Community Building: The project fostered a strong sense of community ownership and engagement. Farmers formed peer-to-peer learning groups, sharing knowledge and supporting each other in implementing regenerative practices.
Sustainable Skills: The training and tools provided have equipped farmers with skills that will continue to benefit them long after the project’s completion, ensuring lasting impact.
These outcomes demonstrate the power of targeted, community-driven initiatives to create meaningful change. By investing in the knowledge and capabilities of refugee farmers, we’ve not only addressed immediate food security concerns but also planted the seeds for long-term resilience and self-reliance.
This support means more than just funding; it represents a lifeline for
thousands of refugee families in Nakivale Refugee settlement who rely on sustainable farming to improve their livelihoods and restore the environment.
The Future
The success of the “Regenerate Nakivale Refugee Settlement” project has inspired ambitious plans for the future. Irenge Mudekuza and his team are now looking to scale up their efforts, aiming to train 2,000 refugee farmers in regenerative agriculture practices and distribute essential farming tools and improved seed varieties.
Future plans include:
- Establishing more community demonstration farms to showcase the effectiveness of regenerative practices
- Focusing on linking farmers to local markets to sell surplus produce
Implementing continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure ongoing success - Exploring additional partnerships for long-term sustainability
Perhaps most excitingly, there are plans to build the Nakivale Refugee Community Learning Center. This center will serve as a hub for education, skills development, and entrepreneurial training for both refugees and the host community. It represents a vision of a future where refugees are not just surviving, but thriving – accessing vital resources, learning new skills, and connecting to online work opportunities.
As we at The Pollination Project reflect on the journey of the “Regenerate Nakivale Refugee Settlement” project, we are filled with hope and inspiration. This initiative demonstrates the incredible potential that lies within communities, waiting to be unleashed with just a little support and belief.
We are honored to have played a part in this transformative project and remain committed to supporting grassroots changemakers like Mr. MUDEKUZA. Their vision, dedication, and hard work remind us that even in the most challenging circumstances, it is possible to cultivate hope, resilience, and a sustainable future for all.
Irenge Gloire Mudezuka
Irenge Gloure Mudezuka is a Congolese refugee residing in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda. A social entrepreneur and climate change activist, Irenge founded Plethora Social Initiative, an organization empowering refugees through regenerative agriculture and entrepreneurship. With a graduate diploma in Urban Planning, he collaborates with local and international organizations to drive positive social change. As a permaculture teacher and coach, he works tirelessly to build resilient communities and catalyze sustainable development among refugee populations.
